"Pride is concerned with who is right. Humility is concerned with what is right."
What a beautiful simple quote!
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Sunday, June 30, 2013
The Winchester Mystery House
This story of Solomon reminds me of another, although they are not exactly the same, there is a busyness to what they did that is empty inside. Sarah Winchester was the wife of the president of the Winchester gun company in the 1800's. She lost her 6 week old daughter and her husband from tuberculosis. A medium told her to do the following: to buy a house out west and as long as construction on the house never ended then her life would not be in danger. So in 1884 she bought a house in CA and for 38 years worked on remodeling it day and night. It seems she might have thought that if she kept busy on the house then the spirits of the dead by Winchester riffles would be appeased. She spent over 5.5 million redoing this house, she turned an 8 room farmhouse into a 106 room mansion. It was seven stories high until the San Francisco area earthquake destroyed three of the stories. At her husband and mother-in-law's death she inherited million of dollars, providing unlimited income. She did seem to be generous to her employees and help the local town, although the money spent on the house could have possibly helped millions of people.
Some statistics about the mansion: 24,000 square feet, 10,000 windows, 2,000 doors, 52 skylights, 47 fireplaces, 40 bedrooms, 40 staircases, 13 bathrooms, 6 kitchens, 3 elevators, 2 basements and 1 shower. It is estimated that 500 to 600 rooms were built, but because so many were redone, only 160 remain. She designed the house with doors that open up into walls; doors that open to nowhere; windows that open into walls; staircases that go nowhere, and one that goes to a ceiling. She held séances and was obsessed with the number 13. When the safe was opened after she died in her sleep Sept. 5, 1922, the servants expected to find money or jewelry. All they found were two locks of hair, one from her daughter and the other from her husband, and two obituary notices, from her husband's and daughter's deaths.
It is said that Mrs. Winchester felt the San Francisco earthquake was a warning from the spirits that she had spent too much money on the front section of the house, which was nearing completion. After having the structural damage repaired, she immediately ordered the front thirty rooms – including the Daisy Bedroom, Grand Ballroom, and the beautiful front doors – sealed up.
This woman grew up privileged and was very educated, yet in her grief she did not turn to God, but to darkness. During this time in history mediums were very popular, many people were interested in looking into mediums and séances. She had irrational ideas due to how deep in the darkness she was. She was consumed with the number 13 as many today are leery of this number. As far as I can recall 13 is not significant in the bible (unlike several other numbers), it is just superstitious. She kept so busy on the house for all those years that maybe she never really got over her grief of losing her family. At the end of her life her most treasured possession was family. No one knows exactly what she was thinking, although she seemed to be tortured and consumed by spirits. She could have done so much more in this world (she did leave money to family, employees and a hospital), she chose to focus on a single mission: building this house. This one woman living in an enormous house by herself (not counting the servants and workers) chose to be alone in an ever changing prison.
I got the facts from: http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Eccl. 2:1-11
v. 1-11 "I thought in my heart, 'Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good.' But that also proved to be meaningless. 'Laughter,' I said, 'is foolish. And what does pleasure accomplish?' I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly-my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives. I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards. I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them. I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me. I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem as well-the delights of the heart of man. I became greater by far than anyone in Jerusalem before me. In all this wisdom stayed with me. I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun."
Solomon thought that he could test himself and be ok. That is dangerous ground to be walking on. We think that we can get away with things or that we won't get addicted to something. Then after a long time of suffering and after digging our way out, we can see the dangerous cliff we were on and how helpless we were. He tried to cheer himself up with wine. Alcohol in moderation is ok, but when people dive in to addiction it will never fill the emptiness. He was saying that he still had wisdom even though what he was doing was not wise. Many people do things, me included, that are dumb even though we know better.
Solomon had the means to spend great amounts of money so he built many houses, gardens, parks and reservoirs; he had a great many slaves, herds, a vast treasure, singers and a harem. This man had what many would have thought to be all anyone could ask for, yet he said it all was meaningless. Solomon did many great things, but because he did them for the wrong reasons, they were hollow inside. This book is a warning that we should not put God out of the way because if that is the case then we will not prosper. What are the reasons behind your goals? Do you want to do good in this world or just get ahead? Let us all think of what is at the core of the things we do.
Solomon thought that he could test himself and be ok. That is dangerous ground to be walking on. We think that we can get away with things or that we won't get addicted to something. Then after a long time of suffering and after digging our way out, we can see the dangerous cliff we were on and how helpless we were. He tried to cheer himself up with wine. Alcohol in moderation is ok, but when people dive in to addiction it will never fill the emptiness. He was saying that he still had wisdom even though what he was doing was not wise. Many people do things, me included, that are dumb even though we know better.
Solomon had the means to spend great amounts of money so he built many houses, gardens, parks and reservoirs; he had a great many slaves, herds, a vast treasure, singers and a harem. This man had what many would have thought to be all anyone could ask for, yet he said it all was meaningless. Solomon did many great things, but because he did them for the wrong reasons, they were hollow inside. This book is a warning that we should not put God out of the way because if that is the case then we will not prosper. What are the reasons behind your goals? Do you want to do good in this world or just get ahead? Let us all think of what is at the core of the things we do.
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Eccl. 1:12-18
v. 12-18 "I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted. I thought to myself, 'Look I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge.' Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind. For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief."
Solomon searched for satisfaction as if it were a science experiment. We are not able to gain true happiness in ourselves, because we will not be satisfied with what we have, we will want more and more. If we did get happiness by ourselves, then when the things we love are snatched away, where would we turn to? The only thing we have control of in this world is how we think, speak and act and how we react to other people and situations. People will continue to search without God. They will grasp onto anything they feel will fill the void in their lives. Solomon called himself Teacher. He assembled people to tell them what God gave him and wise sayings (proverbs). I do not feel he was being conceited, he knew the heaviness of his responsibility to lead the people. Leaders have great responsibility, no matter the size of their followers (an entire company or a household). This man had everything; wisdom, power, riches, honor, reputation and the favor of God. Yet he spoke of the emptiness that this world has to offer. I think God wants us to rethink our purpose and the direction of our life, just as Solomon did in this book.
If someone said that they were chasing the wind then you might think they were crazy. How could one chase the wind? That is what we do in life when we go after things that do not matter. What is twisted cannot be straightened, I think this means that we will not be able to figure out the unanswered questions of life. When you gain wisdom then you are able to see more around you the heartache that is in the world and the more evident evil is. I have heard people say they do not want to know what is happening in the world, in some of the third world countries. Just because you avoid it doesn't mean that bad things are not happening. When you face God and He asks you, did you help those in need, will you say that you didn't know there were any out there? I don't go digging daily for the terrible details of things around the world, but when I hear something I let it sink in and pray. I believe we are supposed to be aware and to take action, prayer may be the only action we can take, but it is extremely powerful. There is a price to wisdom; we will be expected to feel more, observe more, question more, act more and even hurt more.
There are two types of wisdom in this book: human (knowledge, reasoning, philosophy) and Godly (wisdom). I believe there is a difference between wisdom and knowledge. I think that knowledge is made up of facts and ideas; and wisdom is the ability to know what to do with those facts and ideas and how to apply them to life.
Solomon searched for satisfaction as if it were a science experiment. We are not able to gain true happiness in ourselves, because we will not be satisfied with what we have, we will want more and more. If we did get happiness by ourselves, then when the things we love are snatched away, where would we turn to? The only thing we have control of in this world is how we think, speak and act and how we react to other people and situations. People will continue to search without God. They will grasp onto anything they feel will fill the void in their lives. Solomon called himself Teacher. He assembled people to tell them what God gave him and wise sayings (proverbs). I do not feel he was being conceited, he knew the heaviness of his responsibility to lead the people. Leaders have great responsibility, no matter the size of their followers (an entire company or a household). This man had everything; wisdom, power, riches, honor, reputation and the favor of God. Yet he spoke of the emptiness that this world has to offer. I think God wants us to rethink our purpose and the direction of our life, just as Solomon did in this book.
If someone said that they were chasing the wind then you might think they were crazy. How could one chase the wind? That is what we do in life when we go after things that do not matter. What is twisted cannot be straightened, I think this means that we will not be able to figure out the unanswered questions of life. When you gain wisdom then you are able to see more around you the heartache that is in the world and the more evident evil is. I have heard people say they do not want to know what is happening in the world, in some of the third world countries. Just because you avoid it doesn't mean that bad things are not happening. When you face God and He asks you, did you help those in need, will you say that you didn't know there were any out there? I don't go digging daily for the terrible details of things around the world, but when I hear something I let it sink in and pray. I believe we are supposed to be aware and to take action, prayer may be the only action we can take, but it is extremely powerful. There is a price to wisdom; we will be expected to feel more, observe more, question more, act more and even hurt more.
There are two types of wisdom in this book: human (knowledge, reasoning, philosophy) and Godly (wisdom). I believe there is a difference between wisdom and knowledge. I think that knowledge is made up of facts and ideas; and wisdom is the ability to know what to do with those facts and ideas and how to apply them to life.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Ecclesiastes (Eccl) 1:1-11
I know that John comes after Luke, but again God is leading me to another book in the bible. This is a short book and with vacation coming up I thought it might be a good one to do over the summer. Plus I felt maybe the Gospels should be spread out for some reason, what that reason is, I don't know. So here goes a look into Ecclesiastes.
When Solomon became king, he asked God for wisdom. Solomon writes of life's experiences and about the true meaning of life. This was towards the end of his life so he is showing us a reflective look that the things he tried in life were meaningless without God. This man was very powerful and had anything that a person could wish for and yet he thought it was futile. This book is to help spare us the bitterness of learning through our experiences that life is nothing without God. He studied, taught, judged and wrote this book; yet he did not heed his own advice. With humility and repentance at the end he wanted to warn others to not follow the same path that he went down. This book is full of practical and spiritual wisdom.
"Everything temporal must be seen in light of the eternal." NIV notes
v. 1-11 "Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless. What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises. The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again. All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing. What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. There is no remembrance of men of old, and even those who are yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow."
Solomon starts off getting right to the point. He is saying nothing on earth is good without God in our lives. Throughout history there are constant circles of sameness. People come and go, the sun rises and sets and time goes marching on regardless of it's surroundings. The eyes and ears never get their fill, this is very apparent in our current time. Many people are never satisfied with what they have and are always wanting more and more. History repeats itself over and over, the events might be different, yet the undercurrent is the same old story.
The Jewish people passed down the history of their families and they respected their elders. Today seems to be very different. I remember a time when I went to visit my grandma in WV and she spent the entire day talking about stories and showing me pictures. That was a great day, it was snowing the entire day and we had no where to go. There are many that do not respect their elders, we should learn from them, they have valuable information that could help us in our lives and it is good to know where we come from.
When Solomon became king, he asked God for wisdom. Solomon writes of life's experiences and about the true meaning of life. This was towards the end of his life so he is showing us a reflective look that the things he tried in life were meaningless without God. This man was very powerful and had anything that a person could wish for and yet he thought it was futile. This book is to help spare us the bitterness of learning through our experiences that life is nothing without God. He studied, taught, judged and wrote this book; yet he did not heed his own advice. With humility and repentance at the end he wanted to warn others to not follow the same path that he went down. This book is full of practical and spiritual wisdom.
"Everything temporal must be seen in light of the eternal." NIV notes
v. 1-11 "Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless. What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises. The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again. All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing. What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. There is no remembrance of men of old, and even those who are yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow."
Solomon starts off getting right to the point. He is saying nothing on earth is good without God in our lives. Throughout history there are constant circles of sameness. People come and go, the sun rises and sets and time goes marching on regardless of it's surroundings. The eyes and ears never get their fill, this is very apparent in our current time. Many people are never satisfied with what they have and are always wanting more and more. History repeats itself over and over, the events might be different, yet the undercurrent is the same old story.
The Jewish people passed down the history of their families and they respected their elders. Today seems to be very different. I remember a time when I went to visit my grandma in WV and she spent the entire day talking about stories and showing me pictures. That was a great day, it was snowing the entire day and we had no where to go. There are many that do not respect their elders, we should learn from them, they have valuable information that could help us in our lives and it is good to know where we come from.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Luke Recap
When I started this blog last year in December I was getting ready to study Luke. You might wonder why I would start with that book instead of Matthew or Genesis. I am usually one of those people that have to start at the beginning of things, but God had other plans. Luke was a Greek citizen and wrote with non-Jews in mind. He was an educated man, a doctor. Luke not only shows Jesus as part of God, but he shows Jesus' compassion; ability to relate to everyday people; emphasizes prayer, miracles and angels; and gives a prominent place to women. Luke was friends with Paul so he could interview the disciples. So after I started I thought how fitting to start with this book written by an outsider Gentile to all people. Since I am not Jewish either this was a good start. I write to share God's love with all people, not just for any one group. Apparently I have a lot more to say about the bible than I ever thought I would. Thank you for going on this journey with me.
Here are some of my favorites that God gave me while reading this book:
Our facts are only options to God.
To focus on my response to God when He asks something that seems impossible to do.
Spend time with God daily, I am to be prepared at all times.
With Jesus there is no neutral ground.
What is hidden in our hearts can never be concealed from God.
God will use those who the world thinks to be useless.
Jesus was our example in temptation: the enemy will tempt you with physical needs, thoughts of power or tempting God/pride.
You may be the only bible that some people read.
There is no deep dark corner which God's light can't invade.
There are many Pharisees among us, take care not to be one of them.
You must be willing to give when others take, to love when others hate, to help when others abuse and to stand when all others around you fall.
Our speech and actions reveal our true motives.
Works of the flesh will get you nowhere but having faith like a child and love for Him will get you closer to Him.
Let your roots sink deep in the Lord and you will not get swept away when the troubles of the world coming knocking on your door.
The worse off we are and the more profound transformation the more likely we are to affect other people so they see that it is not us but God that made the changes.
When tragedy occurs we then may fall away from our preconceived notions to find where we should have been the entire time.
Don't let your lack of resources blind you from your potential.
Please learn to say no to things that God is not wanting for you.
Is the money you spend out of proportion to the amount you give back to God?
The devil knows that if all your attention is on worry then none of it will be on God.
Just because we have ears doesn't mean we can truly hear.
The son wanted to be free and lived as he pleased, but there is always a price that in most cases we would never really be willing to pay in the end.
Sometimes what appears to be the worse sinners are actually the best representatives for God.
Is your faith so strong that you can act on what God says even before you see evidence that it will work?
No one knows when Jesus will come back to earth.
What a poor and blind man could see was something that the sighted religious leaders refused to recognize.
People tend to judge others so easily, yet they do not hold the same standards for themselves.
Your not saved by good heritage or condemned by a bad one.
You will not think that you are lost before you are ready to be found.
Do not be afraid to share what God has done in your life, our reward will be based on our devotion to the task.
When a seed is planted it has to die to self and be broken open to be able to grow into a mighty oak tree. Without this process the seed will die and produce nothing.
There may be an underlining issue that they can not express in words and our compassion may deem the questions unnecessary.
To bind by bargain or agreement is a good picture of what happens when we compromise, we will be bound up with deceit.
We do not have to know the why, just the Who.
When we eat food for our body we should think of Him since He is food for our soul.
He has given us entrance to His home. Will you accept the invitation?
Judas and Peter both betrayed and denied Jesus, but only one repented.
When we are stressed, tired and weak that is when the enemy will strike since we are easy prey during those times.
The farther you fall the more you see the distance that separates us from Him and the more thankful you are that He would even think to pull us out of darkness.
The enemy will make an appeal to those that oppose your beliefs to find the greatest insult to their beliefs.
Even in the darkest of places, all hope is not lost.
When Jesus died, the curtain in the Most Holy Place was torn to break the barrier that stood between God and man.
Do not think that your contribution is small, you do what you can with what you have.
We do not know the plans God has in store for us, we are to have faith that He knows exactly what He is doing.
They went from being slow of heart to hearts on fire.
Peace from God is something that is unequal to anything in this world.
When we teach it should be simply and with love.
Here are some of my favorites that God gave me while reading this book:
Our facts are only options to God.
To focus on my response to God when He asks something that seems impossible to do.
Spend time with God daily, I am to be prepared at all times.
With Jesus there is no neutral ground.
What is hidden in our hearts can never be concealed from God.
God will use those who the world thinks to be useless.
Jesus was our example in temptation: the enemy will tempt you with physical needs, thoughts of power or tempting God/pride.
You may be the only bible that some people read.
There is no deep dark corner which God's light can't invade.
There are many Pharisees among us, take care not to be one of them.
You must be willing to give when others take, to love when others hate, to help when others abuse and to stand when all others around you fall.
Our speech and actions reveal our true motives.
Works of the flesh will get you nowhere but having faith like a child and love for Him will get you closer to Him.
Let your roots sink deep in the Lord and you will not get swept away when the troubles of the world coming knocking on your door.
The worse off we are and the more profound transformation the more likely we are to affect other people so they see that it is not us but God that made the changes.
When tragedy occurs we then may fall away from our preconceived notions to find where we should have been the entire time.
Don't let your lack of resources blind you from your potential.
Please learn to say no to things that God is not wanting for you.
Is the money you spend out of proportion to the amount you give back to God?
The devil knows that if all your attention is on worry then none of it will be on God.
Just because we have ears doesn't mean we can truly hear.
The son wanted to be free and lived as he pleased, but there is always a price that in most cases we would never really be willing to pay in the end.
Sometimes what appears to be the worse sinners are actually the best representatives for God.
Is your faith so strong that you can act on what God says even before you see evidence that it will work?
No one knows when Jesus will come back to earth.
What a poor and blind man could see was something that the sighted religious leaders refused to recognize.
People tend to judge others so easily, yet they do not hold the same standards for themselves.
Your not saved by good heritage or condemned by a bad one.
You will not think that you are lost before you are ready to be found.
Do not be afraid to share what God has done in your life, our reward will be based on our devotion to the task.
When a seed is planted it has to die to self and be broken open to be able to grow into a mighty oak tree. Without this process the seed will die and produce nothing.
There may be an underlining issue that they can not express in words and our compassion may deem the questions unnecessary.
To bind by bargain or agreement is a good picture of what happens when we compromise, we will be bound up with deceit.
We do not have to know the why, just the Who.
When we eat food for our body we should think of Him since He is food for our soul.
He has given us entrance to His home. Will you accept the invitation?
Judas and Peter both betrayed and denied Jesus, but only one repented.
When we are stressed, tired and weak that is when the enemy will strike since we are easy prey during those times.
The farther you fall the more you see the distance that separates us from Him and the more thankful you are that He would even think to pull us out of darkness.
The enemy will make an appeal to those that oppose your beliefs to find the greatest insult to their beliefs.
Even in the darkest of places, all hope is not lost.
When Jesus died, the curtain in the Most Holy Place was torn to break the barrier that stood between God and man.
Do not think that your contribution is small, you do what you can with what you have.
We do not know the plans God has in store for us, we are to have faith that He knows exactly what He is doing.
They went from being slow of heart to hearts on fire.
Peace from God is something that is unequal to anything in this world.
When we teach it should be simply and with love.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Luke 24:44-53
v. 44-53 Jesus said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms. Then He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures." Jesus told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." Jesus led them out to the vicinity of Bethany. "He lifted up His hands and blessed them. While He was blessing them, He left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshipped Him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God."
Between the last verses and this section, Jesus had been with the disciples for 40 days before going to Heaven. Jesus spent time with the disciples instructing them on their task and removing doubts. Jesus told them that the prophesies had been fulfilled from the Old Testament. I love that it says that Jesus opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. At this point they must have let go of their pride and ambition so they were open to receiving the wisdom of the Word. This is very important: If we let go then we can get to know Him and His word. Let's say you don't forgive someone then I don't think you will get the greatest knowledge of the Word. Don't let petty things hold you back from getting this. We are only hurting ourselves when we latch onto things of the world, when they don't matter in the end. If you are a Christian and you are any of the following: critical, angry, proud, selfish, prone to gossip, condemning, cynical, etc; I hope you will work on those areas. I know that I have some areas I need to work on because I don't want anything to block God's wisdom in my life.
Jesus said that repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations. That is our task as believers; it is not to judge others, be taken over by bitterness, be proud and think we are better than anyone else. I think there is a place for those that give warnings to others about not repenting (the fire and brimstone preaching), but we have to come from a place of love and I don't think the negative should be the focus. When I write my posts they are for me too. I need this to keep me in line and accountable to God.
Jesus told them that when He left He would leave them the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is with all who believe and is here to help and guide us. He told them to stay in the city until they were given power from God. Sometimes in the beginning we feel like running off to some third world country to help people when we should stay where we are to gain wisdom and power.
Of all the places He could have chosen why Bethany? This was a small village outside of Jerusalem. He chose an out of the way place to ascend to Heaven when He could have chosen the temple in Jerusalem. If it was any other man it probably would have been a grand spectacle for all to see. Bethany was were Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead and a possible meaning of Bethany was "house of figs." In 2 Kings 20 it talks about making a poultice of figs to heal someone. Throughout the bible figs were talked about as a sign of either being prosperous or if disaster struck then the figs withered. It was a gauge of how the people were toward God.
Jesus led them to Bethany and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Jesus was blessing them on His way up to Heaven. All saw the price He paid to bless them with authority. I can picture it: His outstretched hands with visible scars from where the nails have ripped through His skin, palms open to welcome all to Him, showing love to the world on His way home. It must have been beautiful! It said they had great joy and continually praised God at the temple. You all don't know how excited I get for Jesus and to write this blog. I have a spiritual hunger for God and I never want that to change to a passive watered down religion. When I have a good post it is like a happy drug that makes my day. There is nothing else on earth that can fill that, I have tried many things that failed to work in the past.
Jesus left simply, there didn't appear to be great legions of angels or any big signs along with His leaving. When we teach it should be simply and with love. This is in contrast to when He comes back again, ALL will see His return.
Between the last verses and this section, Jesus had been with the disciples for 40 days before going to Heaven. Jesus spent time with the disciples instructing them on their task and removing doubts. Jesus told them that the prophesies had been fulfilled from the Old Testament. I love that it says that Jesus opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. At this point they must have let go of their pride and ambition so they were open to receiving the wisdom of the Word. This is very important: If we let go then we can get to know Him and His word. Let's say you don't forgive someone then I don't think you will get the greatest knowledge of the Word. Don't let petty things hold you back from getting this. We are only hurting ourselves when we latch onto things of the world, when they don't matter in the end. If you are a Christian and you are any of the following: critical, angry, proud, selfish, prone to gossip, condemning, cynical, etc; I hope you will work on those areas. I know that I have some areas I need to work on because I don't want anything to block God's wisdom in my life.
Jesus said that repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations. That is our task as believers; it is not to judge others, be taken over by bitterness, be proud and think we are better than anyone else. I think there is a place for those that give warnings to others about not repenting (the fire and brimstone preaching), but we have to come from a place of love and I don't think the negative should be the focus. When I write my posts they are for me too. I need this to keep me in line and accountable to God.
Jesus told them that when He left He would leave them the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is with all who believe and is here to help and guide us. He told them to stay in the city until they were given power from God. Sometimes in the beginning we feel like running off to some third world country to help people when we should stay where we are to gain wisdom and power.
Of all the places He could have chosen why Bethany? This was a small village outside of Jerusalem. He chose an out of the way place to ascend to Heaven when He could have chosen the temple in Jerusalem. If it was any other man it probably would have been a grand spectacle for all to see. Bethany was were Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead and a possible meaning of Bethany was "house of figs." In 2 Kings 20 it talks about making a poultice of figs to heal someone. Throughout the bible figs were talked about as a sign of either being prosperous or if disaster struck then the figs withered. It was a gauge of how the people were toward God.
Jesus led them to Bethany and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Jesus was blessing them on His way up to Heaven. All saw the price He paid to bless them with authority. I can picture it: His outstretched hands with visible scars from where the nails have ripped through His skin, palms open to welcome all to Him, showing love to the world on His way home. It must have been beautiful! It said they had great joy and continually praised God at the temple. You all don't know how excited I get for Jesus and to write this blog. I have a spiritual hunger for God and I never want that to change to a passive watered down religion. When I have a good post it is like a happy drug that makes my day. There is nothing else on earth that can fill that, I have tried many things that failed to work in the past.
Jesus left simply, there didn't appear to be great legions of angels or any big signs along with His leaving. When we teach it should be simply and with love. This is in contrast to when He comes back again, ALL will see His return.
Friday, June 14, 2013
Luke 24:36-43
v. 36-43 "While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, 'Peace be with you.' They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. He said to them, 'Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.' When He had said this, He showed them His hands and feet. And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, He asked them, 'Do you have anything here to eat?' They gave Him a piece of broiled fish, and He took it and ate it in their presence."
Before Jesus showed up here I am wondering if the 11 disciples were not a little irritated by the fact that Jesus had not come to them first. Remember before He died they were fighting among themselves which one of them was the greatest. All of them had turned away from Him which must have stung even more. Jesus had shown Himself to women and some of the other disciples that were not in the core group. I think Jesus did this to show that those that follow Him are sometimes confusing to the world. The world thinks that the lowly couldn't possibly be on the fast track to Jesus. We all have a place in the Kingdom.
I think it is interesting that they thought they were seeing a ghost. What else would have made sense at the time? Yes, I believe there are ghosts. Jesus even said that ghosts don't have flesh and bones so how could I think otherwise. You might think that is crazy, but by now you are sensing a pattern with me:) I think to be stuck on earth as a ghost because of anger or sadness that someone couldn't let go of while they were alive is one of the saddest things. Who would want to stay here when you could go be with Jesus? Jesus asked for food to show that He was not a ghost, yet He could appear and disappear at any moment. He was giving them concrete evidence to something that was incomprehensible in their minds.
The first thing Jesus said to them was "Peace be with you." Of all the things He could have said He wanted to point out peace.
Jesus gave us peace to:
Before Jesus showed up here I am wondering if the 11 disciples were not a little irritated by the fact that Jesus had not come to them first. Remember before He died they were fighting among themselves which one of them was the greatest. All of them had turned away from Him which must have stung even more. Jesus had shown Himself to women and some of the other disciples that were not in the core group. I think Jesus did this to show that those that follow Him are sometimes confusing to the world. The world thinks that the lowly couldn't possibly be on the fast track to Jesus. We all have a place in the Kingdom.
I think it is interesting that they thought they were seeing a ghost. What else would have made sense at the time? Yes, I believe there are ghosts. Jesus even said that ghosts don't have flesh and bones so how could I think otherwise. You might think that is crazy, but by now you are sensing a pattern with me:) I think to be stuck on earth as a ghost because of anger or sadness that someone couldn't let go of while they were alive is one of the saddest things. Who would want to stay here when you could go be with Jesus? Jesus asked for food to show that He was not a ghost, yet He could appear and disappear at any moment. He was giving them concrete evidence to something that was incomprehensible in their minds.
The first thing Jesus said to them was "Peace be with you." Of all the things He could have said He wanted to point out peace.
Jesus gave us peace to:
- keep from war between countries
- to stop hostilities
- be in a state of mutual harmony between people or groups (especially in personal relations)
- keep public order and security
- be free from strife or dissension
- be set free from the enemies grip
- know who He is and that we are greatly loved
- know that we have someone who fights for us
Monday, June 10, 2013
Luke 24:25-35
Thank you for your prayers, I'm in much better spirits today. Still feeling bad, but my soul is peaceful.
v. 25-35 Jesus said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter His glory? And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if He were going farther. But they urged Him strongly, 'Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.' So He went in to stay with them. When He was at the table with them, He took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, and He disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?' They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, 'It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.' Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when He broke the bread."
These men were sad and Jesus had to snap them out of the fog that was surrounding them. Jesus spoke of the Scriptures that were about His ministry and His life. Jesus is the thread that binds the Old Testament and New Testament together. We should not be slow of heart to believe anything that God shows us, that delay might send us down a path that might put doubts between us and God. We should turn to other believers to help us when we do not know the meaning of certain scriptures. We are supposed to be in community with others so we can all grow in knowledge. These men did not want Jesus to go on ahead because it was evening. So they went to eat in the village. When Jesus gave thanks and broke the bread then they saw who He really was and He disappeared. Jesus no longer was bound by His human body, He was immortal and could act as such. The bible says they got up at once to return to Jerusalem. They went despite the darkness of evening with urgency to tell the others what they had seen. They went from being slow of heart to hearts on fire. The bible says they were going to a village about seven miles away from Jerusalem so when they saw Jesus they had a long way to go in the darkness to spread the Good News. Many times it may seem like we are going through darkness when we want to share with others. Do not lose heart, there are those that need to hear and you may be the only one they hear from.
v. 25-35 Jesus said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter His glory? And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if He were going farther. But they urged Him strongly, 'Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.' So He went in to stay with them. When He was at the table with them, He took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, and He disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?' They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, 'It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.' Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when He broke the bread."
These men were sad and Jesus had to snap them out of the fog that was surrounding them. Jesus spoke of the Scriptures that were about His ministry and His life. Jesus is the thread that binds the Old Testament and New Testament together. We should not be slow of heart to believe anything that God shows us, that delay might send us down a path that might put doubts between us and God. We should turn to other believers to help us when we do not know the meaning of certain scriptures. We are supposed to be in community with others so we can all grow in knowledge. These men did not want Jesus to go on ahead because it was evening. So they went to eat in the village. When Jesus gave thanks and broke the bread then they saw who He really was and He disappeared. Jesus no longer was bound by His human body, He was immortal and could act as such. The bible says they got up at once to return to Jerusalem. They went despite the darkness of evening with urgency to tell the others what they had seen. They went from being slow of heart to hearts on fire. The bible says they were going to a village about seven miles away from Jerusalem so when they saw Jesus they had a long way to go in the darkness to spread the Good News. Many times it may seem like we are going through darkness when we want to share with others. Do not lose heart, there are those that need to hear and you may be the only one they hear from.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Song - You Love Me Anyway
This is a song with great lyrics, in bold are my favorites parts. Despite my faults, bad habits, and sin God loves be anyway. At any time if I get too proud I think of the line that says I am Judas' kiss and that will set me right back down in my place. What a beautiful song!
You Love Me Anyway by Sidewalk Prophets
The question was raised
As my conscience fell
A silly, little lie
It didn’t mean much
But it lingers still
In the corners of my mind
Still you call me to walk
On the edge of this world
To spread my dreams and fly
But the future’s so far
My heart is so frail
I think I’d rather stay inside
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
How You love me
It took more than my strength
To simply be still
To seek but never find
All the reasons we change
The reasons I doubt
And why do loved ones have to die?
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway
See now, I am the man who yelled out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes then, I turned away with a smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life
But You love me anyway
Oh, God… how You love me
Yes You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
You love me, Yes You love me
You love me, Yes You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me
To hear a sample go to: http://www.amazon.com/You-Love-Me-Anyway/dp/B002LBY0D4
You Love Me Anyway by Sidewalk Prophets
The question was raised
As my conscience fell
A silly, little lie
It didn’t mean much
But it lingers still
In the corners of my mind
Still you call me to walk
On the edge of this world
To spread my dreams and fly
But the future’s so far
My heart is so frail
I think I’d rather stay inside
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
How You love me
It took more than my strength
To simply be still
To seek but never find
All the reasons we change
The reasons I doubt
And why do loved ones have to die?
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway
See now, I am the man who yelled out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes then, I turned away with a smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life
But You love me anyway
Oh, God… how You love me
Yes You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
You love me, Yes You love me
You love me, Yes You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me
To hear a sample go to: http://www.amazon.com/You-Love-Me-Anyway/dp/B002LBY0D4
Friday, June 7, 2013
Can you pray for me?
I am under attack from the enemy. It makes me think that I am doing something good in the Kingdom, the enemy wants to distract and I do not want to lose focus. The last couple of weeks were annoying and this week just makes me want to cry, ok I have cried a little bit. There are several health issues (minor, but VERY irritating) and everything has hit all at once. I am trying to give it to God, it is hard sometimes to be positive and try and figure out what the reason is for things. I do not doubt God's plan, it can be frustrating when you can not see what He is doing.
So if you read this please say a prayer for me for quick healing and peace during this time. Prayer is one of the most powerful thing we have against the enemy. I thank you all for your prayers.
So if you read this please say a prayer for me for quick healing and peace during this time. Prayer is one of the most powerful thing we have against the enemy. I thank you all for your prayers.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Luke 24:13-24
v. 13-24 "Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing Him. He asked them, 'What are you discussing together as you walk along?'" The disciples told what had happened. "About Jesus of Nazareth, He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all people. The chief priests and our rulers handed Him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified Him; but we had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn't find His body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said He was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but Him they did not see."
These two were disciples, but not in the group of eleven. They were walking away from Jerusalem, they were going the wrong direction. We are likely to miss Him when we are walking away from other believers and are preoccupied with our own issues. They were sad at the events that took place and were discussing what it all meant. They did not even recognize Jesus when He was with them on the path. Were they so overwhelmed with their problems that they couldn't see Him? The news of His death was spreading quickly since the Jews were in town for Passover. They thought this was the end, their hopes had been extinguished. We do not have to have all the answers, we just have to know what is important. These men knew the Old Testament prophecies, they heard the news from the women and some of the other disciples that the tomb was empty. They still did not understand what was happening, they couldn't see what was just beyond the horizon. We do not know the plans God has in store for us, we are to have faith that He knows exactly what He is doing.
These two were disciples, but not in the group of eleven. They were walking away from Jerusalem, they were going the wrong direction. We are likely to miss Him when we are walking away from other believers and are preoccupied with our own issues. They were sad at the events that took place and were discussing what it all meant. They did not even recognize Jesus when He was with them on the path. Were they so overwhelmed with their problems that they couldn't see Him? The news of His death was spreading quickly since the Jews were in town for Passover. They thought this was the end, their hopes had been extinguished. We do not have to have all the answers, we just have to know what is important. These men knew the Old Testament prophecies, they heard the news from the women and some of the other disciples that the tomb was empty. They still did not understand what was happening, they couldn't see what was just beyond the horizon. We do not know the plans God has in store for us, we are to have faith that He knows exactly what He is doing.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Luke 24:9-12
v. 9-12 "When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened."
The women went to tell the disciples that Jesus had risen. They must have been overflowing with joy. How sad it must have been when the disciples thought they were talking nonsense. When you want to share the love of God that is bursting from your heart and others dismiss you as a crazy person, it can make you pretty heartbroken. Some that hear will need time to let this sink in. It is a process. At first they may believe it to be like any other story. Then they will look into it for themselves. Once you encounter Jesus for yourself then you know. You can't experience this through other people, it is a personal relationship with Him.
Peter had denied Jesus three times and must have felt terrible. When the women told the disciples what happened Peter did not want to repeat the mistake he made before. He ran, he didn't walk, he was desperate to find out what happened. God wants us to be excited about Him and His word. He wants us to come running to Him and He will wrap us up in His arms. There needs to be a spiritual thirst that can only be quenched with His love. Our job as a Christian is to tell others what Jesus has done in our lives and tell others about His love. We will be considered crazy, insane or just plain loony, but that will not matter. A long time ago I use to think it was strange for Christians to share about God. I was a very quiet person and didn't understand the mission that was set before us all. Silence of the Truth can only cause damage to the Kingdom.
The women went to tell the disciples that Jesus had risen. They must have been overflowing with joy. How sad it must have been when the disciples thought they were talking nonsense. When you want to share the love of God that is bursting from your heart and others dismiss you as a crazy person, it can make you pretty heartbroken. Some that hear will need time to let this sink in. It is a process. At first they may believe it to be like any other story. Then they will look into it for themselves. Once you encounter Jesus for yourself then you know. You can't experience this through other people, it is a personal relationship with Him.
Peter had denied Jesus three times and must have felt terrible. When the women told the disciples what happened Peter did not want to repeat the mistake he made before. He ran, he didn't walk, he was desperate to find out what happened. God wants us to be excited about Him and His word. He wants us to come running to Him and He will wrap us up in His arms. There needs to be a spiritual thirst that can only be quenched with His love. Our job as a Christian is to tell others what Jesus has done in our lives and tell others about His love. We will be considered crazy, insane or just plain loony, but that will not matter. A long time ago I use to think it was strange for Christians to share about God. I was a very quiet person and didn't understand the mission that was set before us all. Silence of the Truth can only cause damage to the Kingdom.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Luke 24:1-8
v. 1-8 "On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you, while He was still with you in Galilee: The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' Then they remembered His words."
Early in the morning the women took the spices to take care of Jesus' body. Their hearts were still broken yet they got up and did what they needed to do. I can't imagine the scene as they came upon the tomb and the stone had been rolled away. The stones used in front of tombs were massive slabs of rock so it would have been surprising to see it moved. They entered the tomb to find it empty and angels appeared to give them the good news. The angels asked why they were looking for the living among the dead. This is different from other world religions, Jesus was alive after death. The resurrection is the core of Christianity. There are many different denominations who vary on beliefs and theology. I like how Beth Moore says that there are rib issues and spine issues. The rib issues aren't that important and you could still live if a rib was broken (when to baptize, thoughts on Revelations, etc), but spine issues are those that are vital to Christianity and would affect your life greatly (Jesus was the son of God, Jesus rose from the dead, He will come back again, etc).
With Jesus' resurrection:
Early in the morning the women took the spices to take care of Jesus' body. Their hearts were still broken yet they got up and did what they needed to do. I can't imagine the scene as they came upon the tomb and the stone had been rolled away. The stones used in front of tombs were massive slabs of rock so it would have been surprising to see it moved. They entered the tomb to find it empty and angels appeared to give them the good news. The angels asked why they were looking for the living among the dead. This is different from other world religions, Jesus was alive after death. The resurrection is the core of Christianity. There are many different denominations who vary on beliefs and theology. I like how Beth Moore says that there are rib issues and spine issues. The rib issues aren't that important and you could still live if a rib was broken (when to baptize, thoughts on Revelations, etc), but spine issues are those that are vital to Christianity and would affect your life greatly (Jesus was the son of God, Jesus rose from the dead, He will come back again, etc).
With Jesus' resurrection:
- it had begun, our salvation from sin
- death had been conquered
- heaven and earth collided
- we have authority to spread the Good News
- we can find meaning in great tragedy
- we have hope for the future
- Jesus is alive and well
Friday, May 24, 2013
Luke 23:50-56
v. 50-56 "Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea and he was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus' body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how His body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment."
Joseph was a rich man and was a member of the Jewish Council. He did not agree with what they did to Jesus. Sometimes we are powerless to stop cruelty. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body so that he could give Him a proper burial. This could have cost him his position on the council, his position in society and he could be shunned by the other leaders. When it is right to take action do so or you will miss a wonderful opportunity. Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus and when He died, Joseph decided to set aside any punishment from men to help Jesus. Some might think this man was too late, that he should have stood up for Jesus before He died. It is never too late to do the right thing. It was tradition for bodies to be placed in tombs dug out of the rock.
The women followed to see where the body would be laid to rest. So that after the Sabbath they could come back with spices and perfumes. Women could rarely do great things back then, they were limited to being a wife and mother. So the act of taking care of the body after death was something they could do to show respect to Jesus. Do not think that your contribution is small, you do what you can with what you have. These women were not permitted to stand before the governor or religious leaders to defend Jesus, but if they were they would have been a positive witness to Jesus' life. The women started to get things ready to take to the tomb, but had to stop because of the Sabbath. The Sabbath started in the evening (at sunset) on Friday and ended Saturday evening. They followed the law even thought they probably would have rather taken care of Jesus' body that day.
Joseph was a rich man and was a member of the Jewish Council. He did not agree with what they did to Jesus. Sometimes we are powerless to stop cruelty. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body so that he could give Him a proper burial. This could have cost him his position on the council, his position in society and he could be shunned by the other leaders. When it is right to take action do so or you will miss a wonderful opportunity. Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus and when He died, Joseph decided to set aside any punishment from men to help Jesus. Some might think this man was too late, that he should have stood up for Jesus before He died. It is never too late to do the right thing. It was tradition for bodies to be placed in tombs dug out of the rock.
The women followed to see where the body would be laid to rest. So that after the Sabbath they could come back with spices and perfumes. Women could rarely do great things back then, they were limited to being a wife and mother. So the act of taking care of the body after death was something they could do to show respect to Jesus. Do not think that your contribution is small, you do what you can with what you have. These women were not permitted to stand before the governor or religious leaders to defend Jesus, but if they were they would have been a positive witness to Jesus' life. The women started to get things ready to take to the tomb, but had to stop because of the Sabbath. The Sabbath started in the evening (at sunset) on Friday and ended Saturday evening. They followed the law even thought they probably would have rather taken care of Jesus' body that day.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Luke 23:44-49
v. 44-49 "It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, 'Father, into your hands I commit My spirit.' When He had said this, He breathed His last. The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, 'Surely this was a righteous man.' When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew Him, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things."
It is hard to not tear up every time I read about Jesus dying. He chose to die for people that He did not know, those of us who had not been born yet, those who are wicked sinners and even those that hate Him. The earth grieved, darkness fell upon the earth. There would have been no doubt with the events taking place that Jesus was truly the son of God. The curtain in the temple was torn in two. The temple was made up of three parts: court for all people; the Holy Place, only priests could enter; and the Most Holy Place where the high priest alone could go once a year to atone for the people's sin. When Jesus died the curtain in the Most Holy Place was torn to break the barrier that stood between God and man. We do not have to go through anyone to get to God. I think we should learn from church leaders, but they will not be with us at judgment. He offers us a personal relationship, all we have to do is knock and the door will open.
Jesus called out to God for the last time as a man and was giving everything to God. To our last breath we are should speak to our Father. The centurion, who was the commander of the Roman soldiers, saw what happened and praised God. The Romans in general were not believers in God, this man saw proof of something greater than himself. The crowds were in agony because they also saw what happened and knew Jesus was something more than they thought. Regret is a wicked tool of the enemy. Bitter regret must have permeated their souls. The people who knew Jesus stayed and watched from a distance. There are many situations that we don't have control over and we feel helpless. If we turn to God then we will not be helpless.
It is hard to not tear up every time I read about Jesus dying. He chose to die for people that He did not know, those of us who had not been born yet, those who are wicked sinners and even those that hate Him. The earth grieved, darkness fell upon the earth. There would have been no doubt with the events taking place that Jesus was truly the son of God. The curtain in the temple was torn in two. The temple was made up of three parts: court for all people; the Holy Place, only priests could enter; and the Most Holy Place where the high priest alone could go once a year to atone for the people's sin. When Jesus died the curtain in the Most Holy Place was torn to break the barrier that stood between God and man. We do not have to go through anyone to get to God. I think we should learn from church leaders, but they will not be with us at judgment. He offers us a personal relationship, all we have to do is knock and the door will open.
Jesus called out to God for the last time as a man and was giving everything to God. To our last breath we are should speak to our Father. The centurion, who was the commander of the Roman soldiers, saw what happened and praised God. The Romans in general were not believers in God, this man saw proof of something greater than himself. The crowds were in agony because they also saw what happened and knew Jesus was something more than they thought. Regret is a wicked tool of the enemy. Bitter regret must have permeated their souls. The people who knew Jesus stayed and watched from a distance. There are many situations that we don't have control over and we feel helpless. If we turn to God then we will not be helpless.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Luke 23:26-43
v. 26-31 "As they led Him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. A large number of people followed Him, including women who mourned and wailed for Him. Jesus turned and said to them, 'Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me; weep for yourselves and for your children.'" (Jesus was referring to the destruction that would happen in 40 years.) "Then they will say to the mountains, 'Fall on us!' and to the hills, 'Cover us!' For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
The Romans had criminals carry their own crosses after being severely beaten by being flogged. They were to carry the cross from the flogging site to a place outside the city. This would have been a very good deterrent to crime since everyone could see what happened to criminals. Simon (not the disciple) was coming into town and got recruited by the guards when Jesus could no longer carry the cross. In Jesus' most needed hour not one of His disciples were there to help Him. Many will turn away from you when bad things happen, He never will. This is a picture of what it looks like if we are to try and carry our burdens without Him. We can't do it alone and are in need of help. Jesus will help us despite our best attempts at our struggles. The women in Jesus' life were following and weeping for Him. Jesus told them to weep for themselves because He knew that Rome would destroy everything. Jesus was in agony and still was able to speak to the women. He cares for hurting people and will help if you let Him. I love the verse about if men do these things when the tree is green then what will happen when it is dry. When there is abundance there is evil so how much worse will it be when the abundance is gone?
v. 32-43 "Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with Him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified Him, along with the criminals-one on His right, the other on His left." Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." They divided up His clothes by casting lots. "The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at Him. They said, 'He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One.' The soldiers also came up and mocked Him. They offered Him wine vinegar and said, 'If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.' There was a written notice above Him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him; 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!' But the other criminal rebuked him. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with Me in paradise.'"
The soldiers would cast lots (like rolling dice) to decide who would get the criminals clothes. They fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 22:18 (they divided my garments among them, they cast lots). Jesus asked God to forgive the people since they really did not know what they were doing. Here He was in pain and He wanted the people to come to God even at His demise. They dared Jesus to save Himself, since He had saved so many other people. They did not get what had to happen, if He saved Himself then we would never have a way out of sin. With Jesus there were two other men dying that day. One went along with the crowds, leaders and soldiers and mocked Jesus. When you are in pain it is easy to lash out at others.
"Let us go to Calvary to learn how we may be forgiven; and then let us linger there to learn how we may forgive."
Spurgeon's Sermon Notes
We see the love of Jesus enduring
"No one has a right to claim the Christian spirit who refuses to forgive a foe, and even cement his forgiveness by some act of self-denying love."
The Biblical Treasury
The one man rebuked the other man and said Jesus was innocent. This man despite his circumstance decided to turn to God at the end of his life and he got to be with Jesus in heaven that very day. This one man had more faith than the crowds, even the disciples at the time who thought this was the end. Even if you turn to God in your last days He will take you into His kingdom. Wouldn't it be so much better to have Him in your life for decades than just at the end? This man wanted Jesus to remember him in His kingdom. All others thought that the Kingdom was coming to an end. He could see through his pain to what mattered most. Here many failed by going along with the crowd, they insulted Him from every direction. When you were crucified they put a sign on the cross to show everyone what your crime was. They said Jesus' crime was being the king of the Jews. The sign was meant to be ironic, yet they had no idea how true this was. Even in the darkest of places, all hope is not lost.
The Romans had criminals carry their own crosses after being severely beaten by being flogged. They were to carry the cross from the flogging site to a place outside the city. This would have been a very good deterrent to crime since everyone could see what happened to criminals. Simon (not the disciple) was coming into town and got recruited by the guards when Jesus could no longer carry the cross. In Jesus' most needed hour not one of His disciples were there to help Him. Many will turn away from you when bad things happen, He never will. This is a picture of what it looks like if we are to try and carry our burdens without Him. We can't do it alone and are in need of help. Jesus will help us despite our best attempts at our struggles. The women in Jesus' life were following and weeping for Him. Jesus told them to weep for themselves because He knew that Rome would destroy everything. Jesus was in agony and still was able to speak to the women. He cares for hurting people and will help if you let Him. I love the verse about if men do these things when the tree is green then what will happen when it is dry. When there is abundance there is evil so how much worse will it be when the abundance is gone?
v. 32-43 "Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with Him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified Him, along with the criminals-one on His right, the other on His left." Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." They divided up His clothes by casting lots. "The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at Him. They said, 'He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One.' The soldiers also came up and mocked Him. They offered Him wine vinegar and said, 'If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.' There was a written notice above Him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him; 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!' But the other criminal rebuked him. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with Me in paradise.'"
The soldiers would cast lots (like rolling dice) to decide who would get the criminals clothes. They fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 22:18 (they divided my garments among them, they cast lots). Jesus asked God to forgive the people since they really did not know what they were doing. Here He was in pain and He wanted the people to come to God even at His demise. They dared Jesus to save Himself, since He had saved so many other people. They did not get what had to happen, if He saved Himself then we would never have a way out of sin. With Jesus there were two other men dying that day. One went along with the crowds, leaders and soldiers and mocked Jesus. When you are in pain it is easy to lash out at others.
"Let us go to Calvary to learn how we may be forgiven; and then let us linger there to learn how we may forgive."
Spurgeon's Sermon Notes
We see the love of Jesus enduring
- to the closing act of human malice
- to the extreme limit of personal suffering
- love can use no better instrument than prayer
- love, when in a death-agony, still prays
- forgiveness is the first, chief, and basis blessing
- for His wanton murderers in the very act
- for their full & immediate forgiveness
- for no other reason except their ignorance
- He teaches us to forgive the utmost wrong
- He teaches us to pray for others to our last breath
"No one has a right to claim the Christian spirit who refuses to forgive a foe, and even cement his forgiveness by some act of self-denying love."
The Biblical Treasury
The one man rebuked the other man and said Jesus was innocent. This man despite his circumstance decided to turn to God at the end of his life and he got to be with Jesus in heaven that very day. This one man had more faith than the crowds, even the disciples at the time who thought this was the end. Even if you turn to God in your last days He will take you into His kingdom. Wouldn't it be so much better to have Him in your life for decades than just at the end? This man wanted Jesus to remember him in His kingdom. All others thought that the Kingdom was coming to an end. He could see through his pain to what mattered most. Here many failed by going along with the crowd, they insulted Him from every direction. When you were crucified they put a sign on the cross to show everyone what your crime was. They said Jesus' crime was being the king of the Jews. The sign was meant to be ironic, yet they had no idea how true this was. Even in the darkest of places, all hope is not lost.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Luke 23:13-25
v. 13-25 "Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, and said to them, 'You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined Him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against Him. Neither has Herod, for he sent Him back to us; as you can see, He has done nothing to deserve death. Therefore, I will punish Him and then release Him.'" The leaders were furious, "Away with this Man! Release Barabbas to us!"
(Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.) Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again. But they kept shouting, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" Herod asked for the third time, "Why? What crime has the Man committed? I have found in Him no ground for the death penalty. Therefore I will have Him punished and then release Him." The people shouted all the more and demanded that Jesus be crucified. Pilate fearing action from Rome granted their wish and released Barabbas.
Pilate was trying to avoid killing this innocent Man. The leaders were demanding that Jesus die and they would accept nothing else. The leaders hated Jesus so much that they wanted to trade Him for a man in prison that had done what they claimed Jesus did (incite rebellion) and worse Barabbas was a murderer. Barabbas was part of a rebellion against the Roman leadership. He was probably thought to be a hero among the people for standing up to Rome. How interesting that this man was set free in place of Jesus' life, just as we are today. They kept on protesting and finally got their way. Sometimes we compromise because we are tired of resisting the enemy. Pilate was in charge, but he could have lost his position if there were complaints to Rome about his conduct. He had already been warned and with all the Jews coming for the Passover he did not want any trouble. He went against his beliefs to secure his job. Pilate was a politician and wanted to keep the peace. We are to stand up for what is right no matter the stakes.
I think by this time the leaders had spread their hatred to the crowds. So the people also wanted to condemn Jesus. They went right along with the leaders plan. Peer pressure can be very damaging to our souls. The right decision could have big consequences: social rejection, destroy your career/relationships or public ridicule. Pilate wanted to punish Jesus then set Him free which could have killed Him. By Jewish law it was permitted to be beaten with a three pronged whip up to 40 times. This in itself was terrible, but the leaders wanted Him killed before those that would choose to defy their authority. He was going to be made an example of those that defy the law, when in fact He was the Law.
(Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.) Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again. But they kept shouting, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" Herod asked for the third time, "Why? What crime has the Man committed? I have found in Him no ground for the death penalty. Therefore I will have Him punished and then release Him." The people shouted all the more and demanded that Jesus be crucified. Pilate fearing action from Rome granted their wish and released Barabbas.
Pilate was trying to avoid killing this innocent Man. The leaders were demanding that Jesus die and they would accept nothing else. The leaders hated Jesus so much that they wanted to trade Him for a man in prison that had done what they claimed Jesus did (incite rebellion) and worse Barabbas was a murderer. Barabbas was part of a rebellion against the Roman leadership. He was probably thought to be a hero among the people for standing up to Rome. How interesting that this man was set free in place of Jesus' life, just as we are today. They kept on protesting and finally got their way. Sometimes we compromise because we are tired of resisting the enemy. Pilate was in charge, but he could have lost his position if there were complaints to Rome about his conduct. He had already been warned and with all the Jews coming for the Passover he did not want any trouble. He went against his beliefs to secure his job. Pilate was a politician and wanted to keep the peace. We are to stand up for what is right no matter the stakes.
I think by this time the leaders had spread their hatred to the crowds. So the people also wanted to condemn Jesus. They went right along with the leaders plan. Peer pressure can be very damaging to our souls. The right decision could have big consequences: social rejection, destroy your career/relationships or public ridicule. Pilate wanted to punish Jesus then set Him free which could have killed Him. By Jewish law it was permitted to be beaten with a three pronged whip up to 40 times. This in itself was terrible, but the leaders wanted Him killed before those that would choose to defy their authority. He was going to be made an example of those that defy the law, when in fact He was the Law.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Luke 23:1-12
v. 1-5 Then Jesus was lead to Pilate for the next trial. The leaders spoke against Jesus to Pilate saying, "We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Christ, a king." Pilate asked Jesus, "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus replied, "Yes, it is as you say." Pilate's judgment was, "I find no basis for a charge against this man." The leaders were upset and said that He stirred up the people by His teachings.
The religious leaders took Jesus before Pilate who was the Roman governor of Judea. Pilate could either risk his political future by provoking the Jews to complain to Rome about his leadership or he could condemn a man he thought to be innocent. Subverting means: to overthrow; cause the downfall, ruin or destruction of; undermine the principles of, or corrupt. This is exactly what the leaders were doing to their beliefs by accusing Jesus of doing the same. The leaders accused Jesus of opposing payment of taxes to Rome, which was a lie. They thought that this would be an issue for Rome due to their collections throughout the entire empire. They added on at the end that Jesus claimed to be a king, which might also upset the Roman leaders since they were in charge and would not have wanted any rebellion from the Jewish people. Pilate did not see Jesus as a threat to the Roman empire nor to any local laws. The enemy will make an appeal to those that oppose your beliefs to find the greatest insult to their beliefs. The leaders were right that Jesus stirred up the people by His teachings, they were teaching some of God laws and many man made laws and Jesus was teaching the truth and God's love.
v. 6-12 Pilate asked if Jesus was a Galilean, when he learned Jesus was under Herod's jurisdiction he sent them to Herod. "When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see Him. From what he had heard about Him, he hoped to see Him perform some miracle. He plied Him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing Him. Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing him in elegant robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends-before this they had been enemies."
Pilate did not want to deal with this situation so he sent Jesus to Herod. Herod had wanted to see Jesus perform miracles. Why did Jesus respond to Pilate, but not Herod? Pilate was trying to be diplomatic and Jesus answered him. When Herod was asking Jesus questions He was silent. Herod wanted a show and when he didn't get it he and his men started mocking Jesus. Jesus knew that when hearts were hard there was no reason to respond. Some situations we are to speak up and others we are to remain quiet, our task is to learn how to do this. This was the same Herod who killed John the Baptist so there was no compassion in him. The religious leaders were vehemently accusing Jesus of His "crimes." They did not want to see Him set free so they continued with great hatred, hostility, and violent anger to prove they were right. Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate as not guilty. Until then Pilate and Herod were enemies. Pilate replaced the spot formally filled by Herod's ineffective half brother. Sometimes enemies will unite for a common reason, this issue brought them together. During trials in our life we will face adversaries, many times it will be from all sides and repeatedly. I wonder with as much effort people place on ruining other's lives what they could have done good with that energy instead. Hatred is a lot of work and it will only ruin yourself in the end.
"Trial before Annas (powerful ex-high priest) - he may have still wielded much power
Trial before Caiaphas (ruling high priest) - to gather evidence for the Sanhedrin hearing
Trial before the Sanhedrin - formal religious trial and condemnation to death
Trial before Pilate (highest Roman authority) - all death sentences needed Roman approval
Trial before Herod (ruler of Galilee) - courteous and guilt-sharing act by Pilate
Trial before Pilate - Pilate's last effort to avoid condemning an obviously innocent man"
"The verdict was predecided, but certain 'legal' procedures were necessary. A lot of effort went into condemning and crucifying an innocent man. Jesus went through an unfair trail in our place so that we would not have to face trial and receive the well-deserved punishment for our sins."
NIV notes
The religious leaders took Jesus before Pilate who was the Roman governor of Judea. Pilate could either risk his political future by provoking the Jews to complain to Rome about his leadership or he could condemn a man he thought to be innocent. Subverting means: to overthrow; cause the downfall, ruin or destruction of; undermine the principles of, or corrupt. This is exactly what the leaders were doing to their beliefs by accusing Jesus of doing the same. The leaders accused Jesus of opposing payment of taxes to Rome, which was a lie. They thought that this would be an issue for Rome due to their collections throughout the entire empire. They added on at the end that Jesus claimed to be a king, which might also upset the Roman leaders since they were in charge and would not have wanted any rebellion from the Jewish people. Pilate did not see Jesus as a threat to the Roman empire nor to any local laws. The enemy will make an appeal to those that oppose your beliefs to find the greatest insult to their beliefs. The leaders were right that Jesus stirred up the people by His teachings, they were teaching some of God laws and many man made laws and Jesus was teaching the truth and God's love.
v. 6-12 Pilate asked if Jesus was a Galilean, when he learned Jesus was under Herod's jurisdiction he sent them to Herod. "When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see Him. From what he had heard about Him, he hoped to see Him perform some miracle. He plied Him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing Him. Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing him in elegant robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends-before this they had been enemies."
Pilate did not want to deal with this situation so he sent Jesus to Herod. Herod had wanted to see Jesus perform miracles. Why did Jesus respond to Pilate, but not Herod? Pilate was trying to be diplomatic and Jesus answered him. When Herod was asking Jesus questions He was silent. Herod wanted a show and when he didn't get it he and his men started mocking Jesus. Jesus knew that when hearts were hard there was no reason to respond. Some situations we are to speak up and others we are to remain quiet, our task is to learn how to do this. This was the same Herod who killed John the Baptist so there was no compassion in him. The religious leaders were vehemently accusing Jesus of His "crimes." They did not want to see Him set free so they continued with great hatred, hostility, and violent anger to prove they were right. Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate as not guilty. Until then Pilate and Herod were enemies. Pilate replaced the spot formally filled by Herod's ineffective half brother. Sometimes enemies will unite for a common reason, this issue brought them together. During trials in our life we will face adversaries, many times it will be from all sides and repeatedly. I wonder with as much effort people place on ruining other's lives what they could have done good with that energy instead. Hatred is a lot of work and it will only ruin yourself in the end.
"Trial before Annas (powerful ex-high priest) - he may have still wielded much power
Trial before Caiaphas (ruling high priest) - to gather evidence for the Sanhedrin hearing
Trial before the Sanhedrin - formal religious trial and condemnation to death
Trial before Pilate (highest Roman authority) - all death sentences needed Roman approval
Trial before Herod (ruler of Galilee) - courteous and guilt-sharing act by Pilate
Trial before Pilate - Pilate's last effort to avoid condemning an obviously innocent man"
"The verdict was predecided, but certain 'legal' procedures were necessary. A lot of effort went into condemning and crucifying an innocent man. Jesus went through an unfair trail in our place so that we would not have to face trial and receive the well-deserved punishment for our sins."
NIV notes
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Luke 22:54-71
v. 54-62 The men seized Jesus and led Him away into the house of the high priest. "Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, 'This man was with them.' But he denied it. 'Woman, I don't know Him,' he said. A little later someone else saw him and said, 'You also are one of them.'" Peter replied, "Man, I am not!" About an hour later someone else said, "Certainly this fellow was with Him, for he is a Galilean." Peter said, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" After he spoke this the rooster crowed. "The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord has spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows today, you will disown Me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly."
This happened in the middle of the night. The religious leaders wanted to get this done quickly so that they could celebrate the Sabbath. Hard hearts will make actions seem right while actually disregarding the very laws they are supposed to follow. When Jesus was led away Peter followed at a distance. It had begun, the slow fade. When there is a slow fade you don't notice the steep descent into the abyss. Sin will creep in and when we compromise it will latch on to us with roots set deep. The best time to banish sin is right at the beginning, once we wait it will multiply profusely. We know Jesus gave Peter warning that this would happen and he still didn't see it. Three people pointed Peter out as a follower of Jesus and he denied each one. It is easy to speak a lie when it will spare us pain or danger. Our words and our actions do not always line up. Peter denied: knowing Jesus (Woman, I don't know Him), being one of the disciples (Man, I am not!), knowing what they were talking about (Man, I don't know what you are talking about!). When Jesus turned to Peter, he knew what had happened and wept bitterly. He didn't just feel bad for disappointing Jesus, he had denied His purpose and turned on a friend. But coming from this disaster, he grew stronger. After this experience he was ready to truly follow Jesus no matter the cost. The farther you fall the more you see the distance that separates us from Him and the more thankful you are that he would even think to pull us out of darkness. Do not be so quick to judge this man. This shows that when we turn away from Him, if we come back with a right heart He can do great things through us. When you recognize your failure then He can work with you.
When we say we don't know Him, what a piercing sword we wield.
When we say that we are not His, that is disowning you own family.
When you say we don't even know what they are talking about, we deny His sacrifice.
v. 63-71 "The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating Him. They blindfolded Him and demanded, 'Prophesy! Who hit you?' And they said many other insulting things to Him. At daybreak the council of the elders of the people, both the chief priests and teachers of the law, met together, and Jesus was led before them. 'If you are the Christ,' they said, 'tell us.' Jesus answered, 'If I tell you, you will not believe Me, and if I asked you, you would not answer. But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.' They all asked, 'Are you then the Son of God?' He replied, 'You are right in saying I am.' Then they said, 'Why do we need any more testimony? We have heard it from His own lips.'"
Here the mob mentality takes over. People can get very brave to act out if they are going along with others. Here these men were mocking and beating Jesus. When you are at a low point and are being beat down from all sides whether from fist, actions or words, remember He has been there before you and will be with you during your times of trouble. Jesus' trial as a sham. These men had already made up their minds to have Him killed and they had the trials to make them seem justified. Jesus was referencing an Old Testament title for God, I AM. For anyone else to admit this would have been blasphemy (saying they were God) and the penalty for this crime was death. Jesus was not just anyone, He was God's son so He did not break any laws by saying this.
This happened in the middle of the night. The religious leaders wanted to get this done quickly so that they could celebrate the Sabbath. Hard hearts will make actions seem right while actually disregarding the very laws they are supposed to follow. When Jesus was led away Peter followed at a distance. It had begun, the slow fade. When there is a slow fade you don't notice the steep descent into the abyss. Sin will creep in and when we compromise it will latch on to us with roots set deep. The best time to banish sin is right at the beginning, once we wait it will multiply profusely. We know Jesus gave Peter warning that this would happen and he still didn't see it. Three people pointed Peter out as a follower of Jesus and he denied each one. It is easy to speak a lie when it will spare us pain or danger. Our words and our actions do not always line up. Peter denied: knowing Jesus (Woman, I don't know Him), being one of the disciples (Man, I am not!), knowing what they were talking about (Man, I don't know what you are talking about!). When Jesus turned to Peter, he knew what had happened and wept bitterly. He didn't just feel bad for disappointing Jesus, he had denied His purpose and turned on a friend. But coming from this disaster, he grew stronger. After this experience he was ready to truly follow Jesus no matter the cost. The farther you fall the more you see the distance that separates us from Him and the more thankful you are that he would even think to pull us out of darkness. Do not be so quick to judge this man. This shows that when we turn away from Him, if we come back with a right heart He can do great things through us. When you recognize your failure then He can work with you.
When we say we don't know Him, what a piercing sword we wield.
When we say that we are not His, that is disowning you own family.
When you say we don't even know what they are talking about, we deny His sacrifice.
v. 63-71 "The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating Him. They blindfolded Him and demanded, 'Prophesy! Who hit you?' And they said many other insulting things to Him. At daybreak the council of the elders of the people, both the chief priests and teachers of the law, met together, and Jesus was led before them. 'If you are the Christ,' they said, 'tell us.' Jesus answered, 'If I tell you, you will not believe Me, and if I asked you, you would not answer. But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.' They all asked, 'Are you then the Son of God?' He replied, 'You are right in saying I am.' Then they said, 'Why do we need any more testimony? We have heard it from His own lips.'"
Here the mob mentality takes over. People can get very brave to act out if they are going along with others. Here these men were mocking and beating Jesus. When you are at a low point and are being beat down from all sides whether from fist, actions or words, remember He has been there before you and will be with you during your times of trouble. Jesus' trial as a sham. These men had already made up their minds to have Him killed and they had the trials to make them seem justified. Jesus was referencing an Old Testament title for God, I AM. For anyone else to admit this would have been blasphemy (saying they were God) and the penalty for this crime was death. Jesus was not just anyone, He was God's son so He did not break any laws by saying this.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Quotes - Charles Baudelaire & Alice Cooper
"The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world that he didn't exist."
Many know this quote from the movie "The Usual Suspects." A French poet, Charles Baudelaire, first wrote this in 1864. This was from a short story about meeting the devil. Here is what lead to the famous quote:
Many know this quote from the movie "The Usual Suspects." A French poet, Charles Baudelaire, first wrote this in 1864. This was from a short story about meeting the devil. Here is what lead to the famous quote:
"He did not complain in any way about the bad reputation he enjoyed all over the world, assured me that he himself was the
person the most interested in the destruction of superstition, and admitted to me that he had only
been afraid for his own power one
time, and that was the day when he had heard a preacher, more subtle than his colleagues, shout
out from the pulpit: My dear brothers,
never forget, when you hear the progress of enlightenment vaunted, that the
devil's best trick is to persuade you that he doesn't
exist!"
He slowly creeps into our lives as to not alarm us of his presence. His game is total destruction and has all the time in the world to work on us. His goal is to separate us from God permanently. He has many tools in his arsenal, but one of the most effective of all is the fact that many believe he doesn't actually exist. That way he can move freely through the mind to plant seeds of darkness with no obstruction. You might think that I talk about him too much. I believe if you never talk about him then you are deceiving yourself and if you always talk about him then you don't give power to God to work. The bible is full of examples of people making good and bad choices, we are to be fully prepared with all the facts. The enemy is real, then why act as if he is a figment of our imagination? If you never had knowledge of wolves then how would you know one was stalking you?
Here is a quote from Alice Cooper, I know you are probably think of old school Alice and the non God image he portrayed on stage. I tell you he has got it on this subject. "When you believe in God, you've got to believe in the all-powerful God. He's not
just God, He's the all-powerful God and He has total control over every one's
life. The devil, on the other hand, is a real character that's trying his
hardest to tear your life apart. If you believe that this is just mythology,
you're a prime target because you know that's exactly what Satan wants: To be a
myth. But he's not a myth, of this I'm totally convinced. More than anything in
the world, I'm convinced of that."
Luke 22:39-53
v. 39-46 "Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and His disciples followed Him. On reaching the place, he said to them, 'Pray that you will not fall into temptation.' He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 'Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.' An angel from heaven appeared to Him and strengthened Him. And being in anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground." Jesus went back to the disciples He found them sleeping, exhausted from sorrow. Jesus said, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation."
Jesus had a habit of going off to a quiet spot to pray. We should do the same, even if it's five minutes in the car. Jesus told the men to pray that they would not fall into temptation. We are to be on our guard at all times. When we are stressed, tired and weak that is when the enemy will strike since we are easy prey during those times. Jesus talked to God and asked if God would remove what was going to happen to Him. Was He trying to get out of His mission? No, it is good to express our feelings to God. God wants us to bring everything to Him, even if we are upset. Jesus also said that God's will was over His will. I think this is the model for our times of desperation. We can ask that God will take it away, but ultimately we should seek His will above our discomfort. An angel was sent to strengthen Jesus. I believe that when we pray it is allowing the angels to do their work and that we have angels with us as we go about our day. Jesus got a second wind and He started to pray with more depth to the point of His sweat being like drops of blood. He was not giving a prayer to God so He could get it off His checklist. This was a man determined and focused completely on prayer. When Jesus went back the disciples had fallen asleep instead of praying. Don't be found asleep when He comes.
v. 47-53 A crowd of people came to where they were. Judas was with this crowd and he approached Jesus to give Him a kiss. Jesus said, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" When the disciples saw what was happening they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" One of the men stuck a servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Jesus said, "No more of this! And He touched the man's ear and healed him." Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on Me. But this is your hour-when darkness reigns."
Judas had found his moment to betray Jesus. In the darkness of night he led the priests to where Jesus was. Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, a sign of greeting in many parts of the world. This was a hollow gesture because of what was behind it. Are any of our religious practices empty gestures? Sure we think, I would never do what Judas did. When our acts of service or giving are insincere and are just meant for show then we are no better than this man. Peter cut off the man's ear, he thought that he must defend Jesus. God does not need to be defended. The truth is, and that means that there is no reason to argue it. Jesus was being betrayed and He wanted no harm to come to any of the betrayers. Even in difficult situations we are to be kind, it does not matter how others treat us. Jesus healed this man's ear who probably wanted Him dead. Jesus was daily in the temple and they never bothered Him, yet here in the darkness the enemy came to Him with weapons. Mobs are a scary thing, they incite people to do things that they would not normally do. Even when it looks like the enemy has the upper hand, trust in God. There is a plan that we probably will never know on this side of heaven.
Jesus had a habit of going off to a quiet spot to pray. We should do the same, even if it's five minutes in the car. Jesus told the men to pray that they would not fall into temptation. We are to be on our guard at all times. When we are stressed, tired and weak that is when the enemy will strike since we are easy prey during those times. Jesus talked to God and asked if God would remove what was going to happen to Him. Was He trying to get out of His mission? No, it is good to express our feelings to God. God wants us to bring everything to Him, even if we are upset. Jesus also said that God's will was over His will. I think this is the model for our times of desperation. We can ask that God will take it away, but ultimately we should seek His will above our discomfort. An angel was sent to strengthen Jesus. I believe that when we pray it is allowing the angels to do their work and that we have angels with us as we go about our day. Jesus got a second wind and He started to pray with more depth to the point of His sweat being like drops of blood. He was not giving a prayer to God so He could get it off His checklist. This was a man determined and focused completely on prayer. When Jesus went back the disciples had fallen asleep instead of praying. Don't be found asleep when He comes.
v. 47-53 A crowd of people came to where they were. Judas was with this crowd and he approached Jesus to give Him a kiss. Jesus said, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" When the disciples saw what was happening they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" One of the men stuck a servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Jesus said, "No more of this! And He touched the man's ear and healed him." Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on Me. But this is your hour-when darkness reigns."
Judas had found his moment to betray Jesus. In the darkness of night he led the priests to where Jesus was. Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, a sign of greeting in many parts of the world. This was a hollow gesture because of what was behind it. Are any of our religious practices empty gestures? Sure we think, I would never do what Judas did. When our acts of service or giving are insincere and are just meant for show then we are no better than this man. Peter cut off the man's ear, he thought that he must defend Jesus. God does not need to be defended. The truth is, and that means that there is no reason to argue it. Jesus was being betrayed and He wanted no harm to come to any of the betrayers. Even in difficult situations we are to be kind, it does not matter how others treat us. Jesus healed this man's ear who probably wanted Him dead. Jesus was daily in the temple and they never bothered Him, yet here in the darkness the enemy came to Him with weapons. Mobs are a scary thing, they incite people to do things that they would not normally do. Even when it looks like the enemy has the upper hand, trust in God. There is a plan that we probably will never know on this side of heaven.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Compassion
I was listening to a song late last night and hear the word compassion. It is a common word heard in Christianity, but I started to break down the words within the word. It was one of those light bulb moments, I was so excited that I wanted to call someone. Who do you call in the middle of the night to talk about a word? Compassion, I don't think I ever realized the words within (comp, compass, pass, passion). When I started to look up what each word means I was so amazed.
Definitions:
Compassion: feelings of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, strong desire to alleviate suffering.
Compass: instrument to determine direction, the perimeter of an area, space with limits, proper limits
Pass: to omit the usual or regular payment, move past, to cause or allow to go through or beyond a gate, barrier, etc; to go across or over; cross, to endure, complete successfully, complete, transcend
Comp: service provided free of charge to specially chosen recipients
Passion: powerful or compelling feeling
To combine them you get: A powerful feeling of deep sympathy to alleviate suffering by providing free of charge an instrument to determine proper limits to live within and show us true North, which you will then pass beyond the gate successfully! Can you see why I was so excited?
Some of the compassion bible verses:
"A religious man is a person who holds God and man in one thought at one time, at all times, who suffers harm done to others, whose greatest passion is compassion, whose greatest strength is love and defiance of despair." Abraham J. Heschel
Definitions:
Compassion: feelings of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, strong desire to alleviate suffering.
Compass: instrument to determine direction, the perimeter of an area, space with limits, proper limits
Pass: to omit the usual or regular payment, move past, to cause or allow to go through or beyond a gate, barrier, etc; to go across or over; cross, to endure, complete successfully, complete, transcend
Comp: service provided free of charge to specially chosen recipients
Passion: powerful or compelling feeling
To combine them you get: A powerful feeling of deep sympathy to alleviate suffering by providing free of charge an instrument to determine proper limits to live within and show us true North, which you will then pass beyond the gate successfully! Can you see why I was so excited?
Some of the compassion bible verses:
- Exodus 22:27 social responsibility
- Exodus 33:19 God has compassion on those He chooses
- Exodus 34:6 God is gracious
- Deut. 13:17 turn from evil to receive compassion
- Deut. 33:3 God will restore you
- 2 Kings 13:23 God shows compassion on the oppressed
- 2 Chron. 30:9 God will never turn away from us
- Neh. 9:17 God is slow to anger
- Neh. 9:19 God will not abandon us
- Neh. 9:27 God delivered His people from the enemy
- Neh. 9:28 God is faithful to save us
- Psalm 51:1 His compassion blots out our transgressions
- Psalm 86:15 He is abounding in love and faithfulness
- Psalm 103:13 a Father showing love to His children
- Psalm 112:4 compassion is a light in the darkness
- Isaiah 30:18 God longs to show us compassion, He is justice
- Isaiah 49:10 God guides us
- Isaiah 49:13 He has compassion on afflicted people
- Isaiah 49:15 God doesn't forget us
- Isaiah 51:3 He will restore our ruins
- Isaiah 54:10 covenant of peace
- Lam. 3:22 His love never fails
- Mal. 3:17 we are His treasured possession
- Mark 8:2 He will meet our needs
- Luke 15:20 He ran to us with love
- Eph. 4:32 we are to forgive others
- Col. 3:12 give compassion away, be kind, and patient
- 1 Peter 3:8 be humble
"A religious man is a person who holds God and man in one thought at one time, at all times, who suffers harm done to others, whose greatest passion is compassion, whose greatest strength is love and defiance of despair." Abraham J. Heschel
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Luke 22:24-38
v. 24-30 "Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, 'The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. You are those who have stood by Me in My trials. And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, so that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel'"
Jesus just got done saying that He was going to die and that one of them was going to betray Him. So what did the disciples talk about next? Which one of them was the greatest! This is human nature to want to be at the top and ignore what is important. We think how silly that they were being so selfish, they were just being like us. They didn't seem to understand what Jesus was about to do. What are you major concerns today? When you look back 20 years from now will they seem like they were that big or such a small piece of life compared to God's kingdom. Our world structure is very different from God's structure. The greatest among us should be the least. Jesus was setting an example for us to follow. We are to serve others as Jesus would if He were here. There are many leaders who let power go to their head. They live in luxury and there is severe poverty in the streets. Some kings in ancient times called themselves benefactors, there were many who did not live up to that title. Jesus said that He conferred on them His kingdom. Confer means to bestow upon as a gift, favor, or honor. He has given us entrance to His home. Will you accept the invitation?
"Where humility should have abounded ambition intruded."
Let us copy our Lord:
v. 31-37 Jesus predicts Peter's denial. "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Peter replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with You to prison and to death." Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know Me." Then Jesus asked, "When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?" They replied that they lacked nothing. Jesus told them, "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. It is written: 'And He was numbered with the transgressors', and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in Me. Yes, what is written about Me is reaching its fulfillment."
As I recall there are only a few times in the bible that some one's name is said more than once, what an emphasis! Satan asked permission to sift Peter as if he was wheat. Do you see? Satan had to ask permission. When we are under God's protection then the enemy has to ask permission. If we are not under God then he does not need to ask, he will just go about his plan of destruction. To sift the wheat you have to loosen the chaff from the grain. In those days you put the grain on a stone floor and you beat it with a flail or had oxen crush it. This is what the enemy wants to do to you. He does not just want to separate you from God, he wants to annihilate you. The definition of annihilate: to reduce to utter ruin or nonexistence; destroy utterly, to destroy the collective existence or main body of; wipe out, to annul; make void, to defeat completely; vanquish. A flail is a wicked looking tool. It looks like a stick with different implements on the end; chains, spiked ball, or heavy wood. They were also used for war.
After Peter denied Jesus he would become a powerful leader. After we mess up and turn back to God that is when we are the most powerful. Only then we will know what depths we sunk and how far God came down to get us. Peter said he was ready for the ultimate sacrifice, yet he was not ready. Jesus told him that he would deny Jesus three times. How could Peter deny Jesus, you might be wondering. I don't know how many times or years I denied Jesus so I know how Peter felt. Judas and Peter both betrayed and denied Jesus, but only one repented. There is always hope to change. Jesus told the disciples that after He left they would need to be prepared. They would face hatred and persecution and to be ready by having a purse (money), bag (supplies) and sword (a good visual for the trials they would face in the future).
Jesus just got done saying that He was going to die and that one of them was going to betray Him. So what did the disciples talk about next? Which one of them was the greatest! This is human nature to want to be at the top and ignore what is important. We think how silly that they were being so selfish, they were just being like us. They didn't seem to understand what Jesus was about to do. What are you major concerns today? When you look back 20 years from now will they seem like they were that big or such a small piece of life compared to God's kingdom. Our world structure is very different from God's structure. The greatest among us should be the least. Jesus was setting an example for us to follow. We are to serve others as Jesus would if He were here. There are many leaders who let power go to their head. They live in luxury and there is severe poverty in the streets. Some kings in ancient times called themselves benefactors, there were many who did not live up to that title. Jesus said that He conferred on them His kingdom. Confer means to bestow upon as a gift, favor, or honor. He has given us entrance to His home. Will you accept the invitation?
"Where humility should have abounded ambition intruded."
Let us copy our Lord:
- in cheerfully choosing to fulfill the most lowly offices
- in manifesting great lowliness of spirit and humility
- let self-sacrifice be the rule of existence
- in gladly bearing injustice rather than avenge ourselves or grieve others
- in selecting that place in which we receive least, and give most
v. 31-37 Jesus predicts Peter's denial. "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Peter replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with You to prison and to death." Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know Me." Then Jesus asked, "When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?" They replied that they lacked nothing. Jesus told them, "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. It is written: 'And He was numbered with the transgressors', and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in Me. Yes, what is written about Me is reaching its fulfillment."
As I recall there are only a few times in the bible that some one's name is said more than once, what an emphasis! Satan asked permission to sift Peter as if he was wheat. Do you see? Satan had to ask permission. When we are under God's protection then the enemy has to ask permission. If we are not under God then he does not need to ask, he will just go about his plan of destruction. To sift the wheat you have to loosen the chaff from the grain. In those days you put the grain on a stone floor and you beat it with a flail or had oxen crush it. This is what the enemy wants to do to you. He does not just want to separate you from God, he wants to annihilate you. The definition of annihilate: to reduce to utter ruin or nonexistence; destroy utterly, to destroy the collective existence or main body of; wipe out, to annul; make void, to defeat completely; vanquish. A flail is a wicked looking tool. It looks like a stick with different implements on the end; chains, spiked ball, or heavy wood. They were also used for war.
After Peter denied Jesus he would become a powerful leader. After we mess up and turn back to God that is when we are the most powerful. Only then we will know what depths we sunk and how far God came down to get us. Peter said he was ready for the ultimate sacrifice, yet he was not ready. Jesus told him that he would deny Jesus three times. How could Peter deny Jesus, you might be wondering. I don't know how many times or years I denied Jesus so I know how Peter felt. Judas and Peter both betrayed and denied Jesus, but only one repented. There is always hope to change. Jesus told the disciples that after He left they would need to be prepared. They would face hatred and persecution and to be ready by having a purse (money), bag (supplies) and sword (a good visual for the trials they would face in the future).
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Luke 22:14-23
v. 15-19 Jesus told the disciples that He was eager to dine with them before He suffered. "For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God. After taking the cup, He gave thanks and said, 'Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.' And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.'"
The lamb's blood saved the Jews when they were in Egypt and the angel of God passed over their homes. Jesus' blood spilled out in order to save all people from the penalty of sin. If you do not know Him then how could you remember Him? This is supposed to be done daily, every time we eat we should remember Him. This also implies that there is a tendency to forget. It is so easy to get swept up in the cares of the world, then God is only a whisper in our lives which can fade away completely. When we eat food for our body we should think of Him since He is food for our soul.
"It is the very nature of love to want to be remembered." Dr. Stanford
"In remembrance of Me." We are to remember not so much His doctrines, or precepts, as His person. Remember what He was, what He is, what He will be. Remember the Lord Jesus at this Supper:
v. 20-23 Jesus said to the disciples, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. But the hand of him who is going to betray Me is with mine on the table. The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays Him. They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this."
In the Old Testament people had to kill an animal to make a sin offering. Jesus tells us that there is a new covenant because He was dying for our sins. Jesus told the men that one of them would betray Him. Wonder what was going on in Judas' mind, did he think it wasn't actually him or did he go over the reasons to justify his actions. I don't know, but what I do know is that the skill in which the enemy will invade someone seems flawless. People can lie to your face and show no sign of being nervous. That is sad and scary all at the same time. Do not think that just because someone has a Christian label that they can't be used by the enemy. The devil uses many in the fold to drive others away. Jesus was saying that He was going to go along with God's plan, but woe to the one who betrayed Him. Woe in the bible is never good. When you see it be sure to pay extra attention. The warnings He gives are to help us to not go down the same road as those in the past.
The lamb's blood saved the Jews when they were in Egypt and the angel of God passed over their homes. Jesus' blood spilled out in order to save all people from the penalty of sin. If you do not know Him then how could you remember Him? This is supposed to be done daily, every time we eat we should remember Him. This also implies that there is a tendency to forget. It is so easy to get swept up in the cares of the world, then God is only a whisper in our lives which can fade away completely. When we eat food for our body we should think of Him since He is food for our soul.
"It is the very nature of love to want to be remembered." Dr. Stanford
"In remembrance of Me." We are to remember not so much His doctrines, or precepts, as His person. Remember what He was, what He is, what He will be. Remember the Lord Jesus at this Supper:
- as the trust of your hearts
- as the object of your gratitude
- as the Lord of you conduct
- as the joy of your lives
- as the Representative of your persons
- as the Rewarder of your hopes
v. 20-23 Jesus said to the disciples, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. But the hand of him who is going to betray Me is with mine on the table. The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays Him. They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this."
In the Old Testament people had to kill an animal to make a sin offering. Jesus tells us that there is a new covenant because He was dying for our sins. Jesus told the men that one of them would betray Him. Wonder what was going on in Judas' mind, did he think it wasn't actually him or did he go over the reasons to justify his actions. I don't know, but what I do know is that the skill in which the enemy will invade someone seems flawless. People can lie to your face and show no sign of being nervous. That is sad and scary all at the same time. Do not think that just because someone has a Christian label that they can't be used by the enemy. The devil uses many in the fold to drive others away. Jesus was saying that He was going to go along with God's plan, but woe to the one who betrayed Him. Woe in the bible is never good. When you see it be sure to pay extra attention. The warnings He gives are to help us to not go down the same road as those in the past.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Luke 22:7-13
v. 7-13 "Jesus sent Peter and John, saying: 'Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.'" The disciples asked where they should go to prepare it and Jesus replied, "As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there. They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover."
The Passover meal included a sacrificial lamb because of the association of when the Jews were trying to leave Egypt they were to kill a lamb and paint it's blood on the door frame of their houses. When the angel of God saw the blood it would pass over the house and no harm would come to them. The disciples had to prepare the meat for food and get everything ready for the meal. Usually women would go to get water so this man carrying a jar of water would have been very easy to spot. Jesus told the men exactly what was going to happen. Sometimes He is exact and sometimes vague in letting us know things. Either way we should have the same faith that He is in charge.
Several years ago I started to pray for my husband's job. His work was shutting down soon and I felt like I was supposed to pray that he would be back to work by the next February (this started around Feb/Mar 2010). Sometimes I feel like the Holy Spirit will give me something to pray for and I know that I should pray even if it sounds impossible. For a long time he kept telling me rumors at work or from coworkers. Many thought that the plant here was going to be shut down for good, I knew that it was not going to be. I ignored those rumors and said that God was in charge and I believed it completely. The company shut down and he had to go to another plant to work and his report date was the last day of February 2011. I was not surprised at that, but I was surprised that he had to go to TX for 7 months. You see I prayed both for work in February and that he would be transferred to KY so that he was close to us. I wanted KY and did not get that from the Holy Spirit. So off to TX he went, the company then told him that he had to go to another plant for 6 more months after TX. He got sent to KS and I wasn't sure of when he was actually going to be back since the company was not letting them know a date for coming back. April 2012 was put on my heart and I prayed with faith that he would be back before the end of April. His last work day was the end of April, but he took vacation to see us sooner. This might seem small, but to our family it was big. He was gone for 13 months which was hard on all of us. I know that God was working in this situation the entire time. He did not get the locations he wanted, but I knew the time frame and completely gave it to God. It was stressful, but I had such an overwhelming sense of peace because I knew God was watching over us even if I did not understand the reasons.
We do not have to know the why, just the Who.
The Passover meal included a sacrificial lamb because of the association of when the Jews were trying to leave Egypt they were to kill a lamb and paint it's blood on the door frame of their houses. When the angel of God saw the blood it would pass over the house and no harm would come to them. The disciples had to prepare the meat for food and get everything ready for the meal. Usually women would go to get water so this man carrying a jar of water would have been very easy to spot. Jesus told the men exactly what was going to happen. Sometimes He is exact and sometimes vague in letting us know things. Either way we should have the same faith that He is in charge.
Several years ago I started to pray for my husband's job. His work was shutting down soon and I felt like I was supposed to pray that he would be back to work by the next February (this started around Feb/Mar 2010). Sometimes I feel like the Holy Spirit will give me something to pray for and I know that I should pray even if it sounds impossible. For a long time he kept telling me rumors at work or from coworkers. Many thought that the plant here was going to be shut down for good, I knew that it was not going to be. I ignored those rumors and said that God was in charge and I believed it completely. The company shut down and he had to go to another plant to work and his report date was the last day of February 2011. I was not surprised at that, but I was surprised that he had to go to TX for 7 months. You see I prayed both for work in February and that he would be transferred to KY so that he was close to us. I wanted KY and did not get that from the Holy Spirit. So off to TX he went, the company then told him that he had to go to another plant for 6 more months after TX. He got sent to KS and I wasn't sure of when he was actually going to be back since the company was not letting them know a date for coming back. April 2012 was put on my heart and I prayed with faith that he would be back before the end of April. His last work day was the end of April, but he took vacation to see us sooner. This might seem small, but to our family it was big. He was gone for 13 months which was hard on all of us. I know that God was working in this situation the entire time. He did not get the locations he wanted, but I knew the time frame and completely gave it to God. It was stressful, but I had such an overwhelming sense of peace because I knew God was watching over us even if I did not understand the reasons.
We do not have to know the why, just the Who.
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